Tell us about E-Sports FootballE-Sports Football Club (EFC) have been one of the leading football academies in the Middle East. We have a history of over 10 years’ experience in delivering first class programs to young aspiring footballers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi respectively. EFC have continued to evolve as a development platform for youth footballers to ensure that all players from the age of three years have the support and equal opportunity to improve their game technically and tactically. We are now the only non-Emirati Football Institution that has been granted official Club status by the UAE Football Association. With a holistic approach to player development, EFC have created a clear player development pathway for all ages and abilities, under the guidance of ex-professional footballers and UEFA licensed coaches - who all share an ethos and values that is to promote good sportsmanship, a positive attitude to team mates and opponents, plus to always give your best for the team.

Tell us about the E-Sports Football program overviewSkills in School: After school program for boys aged three to 12 years

Early Touches: Age specific coaching for boys aged three to six years

Football Academy: Age specific coaching for boys ranging from seven to 18 years

Girls Football Academy: Age specific coaching for girls aged four to 16 years

Squad Program: For young aspiring players who wish to play competitive football

Adult Football: Tournaments open to men and women 18 years+Where did the idea to create an academy for kids come from?E-Sports Management consists of passionate sportsmen with families themselves. Being ex-professionals they share an incredible interest and drive to develop youth programs.

What skills can kids learn?The program incorporates a range of age specific training in different environments and scenarios. Fundamental skills such as coordination, balance and motor skills are focused on just as much as tactical knowledge, and being able to deal with competitive environments.

How often will the coaching take place?Coaching takes place on Saturdays to Thursdays at several major venues in Dubai. Parents can chose to enroll their kids once a week, or have them attend multiple sessions regularly.

What are the favourite parts of the football academy?We offer our players an array of friendlies and league matches/tournaments. These are always popular as the kids get to put in play what they have learnt during training. Our Junior Football League is also a highly regarding program offering small sided, competitive matches for ages six to 16.

What are the future plans for E-Sports Football?Having just gained club status approval by the UAE FA, the ambition is to further align ourselves with professional standards. In addition, we will be working strongly on awareness and development of girls and women’s football in the UAE.

How important is it to keep kids’ fit and healthy?Naturally this stands at first place when it comes to parents’ priorities. The kids move and keep fit in a fun environment. Especially in a place like the UAE, where climate can prove difficult to stay active and the accessibility to modern entertainment is so easy for the kids, we play a huge role in their healthy development. EFC recognises this and we also offer nutritional courses and advice to our players and parents on an ongoing basis.E-Sports Football, E-Sports Football Club, email football@esportsdubai.com, www.esportsfootballclub.com (04 443 4188/055 848 5864).